In this 2023 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity Guide, we’ll provide you with charts and all the information you need to know about its towing capabilities, so you can make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the right truck for your needs. Get ready to be impressed by the Ford Explorer’s impressive towing power!
So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to towing, our guide is the perfect tool to help you hit the road with confidence. Now, what is the 2023 Ford Explorer’s Towing Capacity?
The Maximum 2023 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity ranges between 3,000 – 5,600 lbs. (1,360 – 2,540 kg), depending on various configurations, engine types, GCWR, cab styles, axle ratio codes, drivetrains, and the tow package installed.
This table presents a comprehensive overview of the 2023 Ford Explorer’s towing capacity and other specifications.
| Configuration | Drive | Axle Ratio | Max. Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | RWD | 3.36 | 5,300 lbs. |
| 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 4WD | 3.51 | 5,300 lbs. |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 4WD | 3.58* | 5,600 lbs. |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 4WD | 3.16 | 5,600 lbs. |
| 3.3L Hybrid V6 | – | 3.73** | 5,000 lbs. |
| Timberline 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 4WD | 3.58 TORSEN Limited Slip Rear Axle | 5,300 lbs. |
* ST model only. ** Requires optional Class III Trailer Tow Package.
The 2023 Ford Explorer boasts impressive towing capacities, depending on the engine configuration chosen.
- The 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine, available in both RWD and 4WD models, offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,300 lbs.
- The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine, also available in 4WD models, has two available axle ratios, both of which offer a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 lbs.
- The 3.3L Hybrid V6 engine, another option, provides a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs.
- The Timberline trim level, equipped with the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine and a TORSEN Limited Slip Rear Axle, also has a maximum towing capacity of 5,300 lbs.
With these diverse options, the Ford Explorer provides the versatility and power to tow a variety of items with ease.
According to Ford, for all 2023 Explorer models and configurations, the maximum trailer weight allowed for towing with or by the bumper only is 3,000 lbs. For trailers over 2,000 lbs. – Class IV Trailer Tow Package (52T) is recommended.
Here I’ve collected all the 2023 Ford Explorer towing and payload capacity information from the official Ford resources that includes the 2023 Ford Explorer Pickup Brochure and 2023 Ford RV Trailer Towing Guide.
Table of Contents
- 2023 Ford Explorer vs. Competitors Towing Capacity
- 2023 Ford Explorer Specifications
- What’s New for the 2023 Ford Explorer?
- 2023 Explorer Towing Capacity Charts
- 2023 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity by Engine Type
- 2023 Ford Explorer Packages
- How to calculate the 2023 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
- Useful Resources
- Conclusion
2023 Ford Explorer Specifications
The 2023 Ford Explorer is a versatile and capable SUV, offering a range of trims to choose from to suit different needs and preferences. From the Base to the XLT, ST, ST-Line, Limited, Timberline, Platinum, and King Ranch trims, the Ford Explorer has something to offer everyone.
With the ability to seat up to 7 passengers, the Ford Explorer is a great choice for families or groups. The maximum towing capacity of 5,600 lbs. ensures that the Ford Explorer can handle heavy loads with ease.
The Ford Explorer is available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 4-wheel drive (4WD) configurations, allowing drivers to choose the drive type that suits their needs best. The available engines include the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4, 3.0L EcoBoost V6, and 3.3L Hybrid.
The 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine produces 300 hp at 5,500 rpm and 310 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine generates 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The 3.3L Hybrid engine produces 318 hp at 6,500 rpm and 322 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm.
The Ford Explorer is equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and seamless shifts. The wheelbase measures 119.1 inches, providing a stable and comfortable ride. With its impressive specifications, the 2023 Ford Explorer is a great choice for anyone in the market for a versatile and capable SUV.
| Trims | Base, XLT, ST, ST-Line, Limited Timberline, Platinum, King Ranch |
|---|---|
| Seating | Max Seating = 7 |
| Maximum Towing | 5,600 lbs. |
| Drive Type | RWD and 4WD |
| Engines | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 3.0L EcoBoost V6 3.3L Hybrid |
| 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | Horsepower = 300 @ 5,500 rpm Torque = 310 @ 3,500 rpm |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | Horsepower = 400 Torque = 415 |
| 3.3L Hybrid | Horsepower = 318 @ 6,500 rpm Torque = 322 @ 2,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Wheelbase | 119.1 Inches |
What’s New for the 2023 Ford Explorer?
For the 2023 model year, the Ford Explorer remains unchanged in terms of performance, capability, and technology. However, a new addition to the color palette is the Red Jewel Metallic paint option.
2023 Explorer Towing Capacity Charts
The accompanying charts present the conventional towing capacity for the 2023 Ford Explorer, taking into consideration a range of factors such as the engine type, body style, wheelbase, drivetrains, and axle ratio.
This information can be obtained by using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) decoder. With this tool, you can quickly and easily determine the towing capacity of your Ford Explorer, ensuring that you choose the right package and equipment to meet your towing needs.
Other Useful Charts
2023 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity by Engine Type
The 2023 Ford Explorer’s towing capacity is a crucial factor to consider when hauling heavy loads. This capacity depends on several factors, including the engine type, configuration, drive, and axle ratio.
The following table outlines the towing capacity of different engine types in the Ford EcoBoost line:
| Configuration | Drive | Axle Ratio | Max. Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | RWD | 3.36 | 5,300 lbs. |
| 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 4WD | 3.51 | 5,300 lbs. |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 4WD | 3.58* | 5,600 lbs. |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 4WD | 3.16 | 5,600 lbs. |
| 3.3L Hybrid V6 | – | 3.73** | 5,000 lbs. |
| Timberline 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 4WD | 3.58 TORSEN Limited Slip Rear Axle | 5,300 lbs. |
2.3L EcoBoost I-4 Towing Capacity
The 2023 Ford Explorer with a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine has a maximum towing capacity of 5,300 lbs. regardless of whether it’s configured for rear-wheel drive (RWD) with an axle ratio of 3.36 or for four-wheel drive (4WD) with an axle ratio of 3.51.
The Timberline model, with a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine and a 4WD configuration, has a maximum towing capacity of 5,300 lbs. thanks to its 3.58 TORSEN Limited Slip Rear Axle.
3.0L EcoBoost V6 Towing Capacity
For the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine in the 2023 Ford Explorer, the towing capacity is 5,600 lbs. if it’s equipped with a 4WD and an axle ratio of 3.58. Another 4WD configuration with an axle ratio of 3.16 also has a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 lbs.
3.3L Hybrid V6 Towing Capacity
The 2023 Ford Explorer with a 3.3L Hybrid V6 engine has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. with an axle ratio of 3.73.
In conclusion, Ford’s EcoBoost line offers a range of engines with impressive towing capacities to meet the demands of various hauling needs.
2023 Ford Explorer Packages
The 2023 Ford Explorer offers a range of packages to cater to your driving needs.
The standard package includes Ford Co-Pilot360™ and Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+, ensuring a safe and seamless driving experience.
For those who require additional features, there are several optional packages to choose from such as the Class IV Trailer Tow Package, Premium Technology Package, Technology Package, and Equipment Group 601A.
For those who prioritize value, the Ford Explorer also offers a Value Package that comes standard with Equipment Group 600A, providing you with essential features at a great value.
Regardless of your needs and preferences, the 2023 Ford Explorer has a package to suit you.
How to calculate the 2023 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
When determining the towing capacity of your 2023 Explorer truck, it is important to take into account several factors, including the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), curb weight, passenger weight, cargo weight, and any truck body additions.
To obtain the GCWR and curb weight information, you can use a VIN decoder by simply entering your truck’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number and clicking the decode button. This will provide you with all the necessary information to calculate your truck’s towing capacity.
Once you have obtained the relevant ratings, use a towing capacity calculator to determine the maximum trailer weight your truck can tow. It is important to take note of these numbers and use them as a guide when selecting a trailer or determining what your truck is capable of towing.
The tongue load is the force exerted by the tongue of a trailer onto the rear step bumper or hitch receiver.
It is typically calculated as a percentage of the total trailer weight, with conventional trailer towing requiring a tongue load weight of 10% and 5th-wheel towing requiring 15%.
For example, if the maximum trailer weight (towing capacity) is 4,000 lbs, the tongue weight should not exceed 400 lbs, which is 10% of the total trailer load.
This is important to consider as an improperly balanced tongue load can result in poor handling and stability while towing. To ensure safe and efficient towing, it is crucial to pay attention to the tongue load weight and make adjustments as needed.
Useful Resources
2023 Ford RV and Trailer Towing Guide PDF
Conclusion
The maximum towing capacity of the 2023 Ford Explorer ranges from 3,000 – 5,600 lbs. (1,360 – 2,540 kg). In conclusion, the 2023 Ford Explorer provides drivers with a variety of engine options, each offering its towing capacities. Whether you need efficient performance or higher towing capabilities, the Explorer has you covered.
Explore Capacities by Vehicle Make
